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The Z9 uses a sensor by Sony (IMX609AQJ). Also, 30+ Nikon cameras use Sony sensors as well.

Can anyone comment about this relationship? For instance, besides manufacturing it, did Sony design it too?

These are customer runs of proprietary designs which extends to the filter pack, micro lens array and potentially the stacked data take off layout, but the core is all untouched Sony.

It’s also interesting because there seems to be a competitive angle too. Sony makes cameras as well that use Sony sensors.

There are contractual agreements in place to use certain designs over a given period of time.

Therefore, Sony can invest and Nikon can benefit from Sony's products. It is a bit of a win-win situation. Otherwise, Nikon would be force to use another supplier's sensors (as they do and have done already in the past). Nikon don't have the capability to produce large scale sensors for their cosumer imaging devices at the present time and likely won't for the foreseeable future.

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